Robust deep learning estimation of cortical bone porosity from MR T1-weighted images for individualized transcranial focused ultrasound planning

Transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) is an emerging neuromodulation approach that has been demonstrated in animals but is difficult to translate to humans because of acoustic attenuation and scattering in the skull. Optimal dose delivery requires subject-specific skull porosity estimates which has traditionally been done using CT. We propose a deep learning (DL) estimation of skull porosity from T1-weighted MRI images which removes the need for radiation-inducing CT scans.